"[WHD FAB 2024-1] cautions that AI presents unique challenges regarding leave eligibility and accommodation, emphasizing that AI systems must appropriately handle requests for FMLA leave, accommodate eligible employees, and avoid discriminatory practices.... [An] AI system's failure to consider extenuating circumstances in determining whether employees have complied with their obligations for FMLA certification could violate either the FMLA, the ADA, or both, implicating an interference or discrimination claim."  MORE >>

"[WHD FAB 2024-1] emphasizes 'responsible human oversight' when using AI and other automated systems to administer FMLA leave.... Use of AI to administer FMLA leave can create potential risk of violating the FMLA certification requirements if the AI system fails to comply with the FMLA's limitations on the information that can be requested or notification or deadline requirements."  MORE >>

"[T]he suit alleges that Aetna took money from Grainger 'under the guise of claims administration, transferred the money to accounts under Aetna's control, paid a fraction of that money to health care providers to settle the claims, and kept the difference.' ... [and] that Aetna ... [prevented] Grainger from discovering Aetna's improper conduct by, among other things, 'limiting audit rights, providing false or inaccurate claims reports, and preventing Grainger from obtaining or accessing data about the actual financial transactions between Aetna and the health care providers.' " [Grainger v. Aetna Life Ins. Co., No. 24-0352 (E.D. Tex. complaint filed May 10, 2024)]  MORE >>

12 pages. "In 2024, the cost of healthcare for a hypothetical American family of four in a typical employer-sponsored health plan is $32,066 ... Healthcare costs for the average person increased 6.7% from 2023 to 2024.... Pharmacy is the primary driver of the change in MMI healthcare costs, increasing 13% from 2023 to 2024 and contributing to nearly half of the total year-over year change in cost."  MORE >>

"Despite the explosion in demand for weight loss drugs known as GLP-1s, 58% of patients discontinue use before reaching a clinically meaningful health benefit.... 30% of patients discontinued use of the medications within the first month."  MORE >>

"Doctors say the new model's humanlike qualities could make patients more comfortable querying the generative AI chatbot for health care advice."  MORE >>

"Attorney General Gentner Drummond of Oklahoma recently filed a lawsuit against major diabetic drug manufacturers and PBMs, alleging an unfair and deceptive pricing scheme that has cost patients billions. Drummond claims violations of the Oklahoma Consumer Protection Act and said that manufacturers have significantly increased the prices of diabetes drugs despite reduced production costs." [Oklahoma v. Eli Lilly and Co., No. CJ-2024-666 (Dist. Ct. Cleveland Cty. complaint filed May 14, 2024)]  MORE >>

"With concerns that costs could reach more than $1 billion over the next 6 years, North Carolina opted to stop coverage for the pricey new GLP-1s, saying the contracts between the drugmakers and the PBMs 'are all-or-nothing.' "  MORE >>

"To feel confident you're offering the best financial benefits for a wide range of employees, start by asking them about the financial obstacles they're currently facing and how they would rate their own financial health or financial confidence.... Do the benefits you offer today align with what your employees need? Are you offering a variety of benefits for different demographic groups? Where are the gaps between your current benefits and the things employees are asking for?"  MORE >>

"The three most important job features among healthcare employees are salary (69% chose this), benefits (45%) and work-life balance (44%). The three most important benefits are paid time off (83%), health insurance (83%) and retirement savings plan (76%). Respondents age 60 and older are more likely to prioritize an employer’s benefits, culture and mission, while those under 40 more frequently cite work-life balance, advancement opportunities and professional development."  MORE >>